Dish TV, d2H Slapped With Notices From TRAI; They Are Forcing Users With Their Own Packs, Channels

Two of the largest DTH operators in the country: Dish TV and d2H have been slapped with notices from TRAI over breaking the norms of the new Cable TV regulations.

What have they actually done?

TRAI To Dish TV, d2H: Why Are You Breaking Rules?

The notices by TRAI has been sent to Dish TV and d2H for flouting the norms and rules and forcing consumers to select packs and channels given by them.

This is clearly against the rules, and violation of consumer rights.

In the notice, TRAI asked Dish and d2H why they are offering various bouquets of free to air channels to the users, without their consent.

The message from TRAI stated: “The said DTH operator is forcefully offering a bouquet of free-to-air channels with no choice to subscribers and without their consent. This is in addition to the channels opted by the subscribers and the following message is being displayed – This is a free to air bouquet at no extra charge. If you have selected any pay channel, then this bouquet will not impact your NCF.”

Dish TV and d2H has been given 5 days to respond to the notices. There is no information about what can happen, in case they fail to justify this action.

Similar notices were also sent to Bharti Telemedia and cable operators: GTPL Hathway, SITI Networks, Hathway Digital, Fastway Transmissions, Den networks and IndusInd Media.

Why Are Dish TV and d2H Breaking Rules?

Under the new Cable TV regime, DTH and Cable companies cannot enforce any channel or packs on the users. Consumers need to pay Rs 130 plus tax for accessing 100 channels. These should be selected by the users, and they can replace the FTA or Free to Air channels, and also choose the pay channels in the same bouquet.

Now, as per reports from various sources, consumers of these DTH and cable companies are enforcing their own channels, and packs, by giving misinformation to the users.

We had earlier reported about TRAI Chairman RS Sharma repeatedly stating that no consumer should be forced to choose any particular channel.

Since elections are going on, several political parties are attempting to push their own news channels, in order to advertise a political agenda.

As per some insiders, this can be the reason why TRAI has been so aggresive in stopping this practice by cable and DTH companies.

Another warning was issued in the month of March, and again in April.

And now, notices have been sent. It would be interesting to know what can be the action if Dish and d2H don’t comply with the rules.

We will keep you updated, as we receive more information.